In the build-up to one of the most anticipated fights in recent memory, Terence “Bud” Crawford has found himself at the center of unexpected controversy. The World Boxing Association (WBA) has confirmed that the undefeated star will be stripped of his super welterweight championship once he steps into the ring to face Saúl “Canelo” Álvarez on September 13.
This ruling stems not from misconduct, but rather from boxing’s rigid weight-class rules. Crawford, who recently captured the WBA super welterweight crown, will no longer be eligible to hold that belt as he competes at super middleweight (168 pounds) against Canelo. The WBA’s decision means Crawford leaves behind the 154-pound division without defending his newly acquired status, effectively resetting the landscape for fighters in that weight class.
Crawford’s Title Status and Division Shake-Up
By stepping into the higher weight category, Crawford automatically vacates his position as WBA champion at 154 lbs. The organization swiftly confirmed that Abass Baraou, who had been serving as the interim champion after defeating Yoenis Tellez, will be elevated to full champion. Baraou’s promotion ensures that the title doesn’t sit vacant and that the division continues with an active champion ready to defend against top contenders.
As part of this change, Baraou is expected to face a major test almost immediately. Reports indicate that his first defense will likely come against Jermell Charlo, the former undisputed super welterweight king who has long been regarded as one of the most dangerous fighters at the weight. This move sets the stage for exciting showdowns in the division, even as Crawford prepares for the biggest test of his career two weight classes higher.
The reshuffling underscores boxing’s often unforgiving structure—when a fighter pursues glory in one division, sacrifices must be made elsewhere. For Crawford, who already held championships in multiple weight classes throughout his career, giving up the 154-pound belt is a symbolic acknowledgment that his ambitions lie at the highest level possible.
WBO Title Also Vacated
The WBA ruling wasn’t the only hit to Crawford’s status. Alongside losing the WBA super welterweight title, Crawford has also vacated his WBO interim title at 154 lbs. By doing so, he clears the path for fresh competition in the super welterweight category, while firmly signaling that he has no plans to return to that weight anytime soon.
This move simplifies the field for rising stars and experienced contenders still working to carve their legacies at 154. With Crawford gone, the division is now wide open, making it one of the most intriguing weight classes to watch in the coming year.
Why Crawford Made the Move
Crawford’s decision to leap up two divisions without any rehydration clauses illustrates his determination to face the very best. Canelo Álvarez, the reigning undisputed super middleweight champion, presents both the toughest and most lucrative challenge available in the sport.
By moving to 168 lbs, Crawford takes a massive risk. He will be giving up natural size and strength advantages to Canelo, a fighter renowned for his power, body punching, and durability. Yet for Crawford, the opportunity to test himself against one of boxing’s true legends outweighs the security of holding onto titles in a lower division.
The Nebraska native has long spoken about chasing legacy fights. Beating Canelo would not only cement his reputation as one of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of all time but also mark a defining moment in boxing history. Should he win, he will become one of the very few men to successfully move up multiple divisions and dethrone an established champion at the top.
The Bigger Picture
While some fans are disappointed that Crawford’s reign at super welterweight ends prematurely, most recognize the magnitude of his upcoming clash with Canelo. It’s a showdown that transcends belts and divisions—a true “superfight” that could determine the face of boxing moving forward.
The WBA’s enforcement of its rules ensures stability in the 154-pound class, but Crawford’s departure leaves questions about what might have been. Could he have unified the division? Would he have defended against top names like Charlo or Sebastian Fundora? Those debates will linger, but Crawford himself appears unconcerned. His focus is squarely on September 13, where his legacy is on the line.
For Abass Baraou and the rest of the contenders at 154, this turn of events is a blessing in disguise. They now have a golden opportunity to claim championship status without having to go through Crawford, one of the most difficult fighters of his generation. For fans of the division, this means fresh matchups, hungry challengers, and a new era of competition.
Conclusion
The WBA’s punishment of stripping Terence Crawford of his title is less about discipline and more about enforcing boxing’s structures. By moving up to face Canelo Álvarez at super middleweight, Crawford automatically closes one chapter while opening another, potentially more historic one.
As the countdown to fight night continues, Crawford’s gamble is clear: he has traded the security of championships in familiar territory for a chance at immortality against one of the sport’s greatest champions. Whether it pays off or not will be decided in the ring on September 13, but one thing is certain—Crawford’s daring move has already reshaped the boxing world, sparking new rivalries, reigniting old debates, and ensuring that the sport remains as unpredictable and dramatic as ever.
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